
Private car transfer from Coimbra to Porto
in 1 h 20 min
per seat
car
Trip Information
Pick-up
Your driver will meet you at your address in Coimbra.
- Door-to-door service
- Help with your luggage
Trip
You’ll travel in comfort for 1 h 20 min.
- Optional sight-seeing
- Clean, comfortable car
- Professional driver
- Bottled water
- Child seats
- Prepared for handicapped
- Smoke-free
- Pet friendly
Drop-off
Your driver will drop you off at your address in Porto.
- Door-to-door service
- Help with your luggage
Overview: car trip from Coimbra to Porto
Porto, hugged by both the Douro River and the Atlantic Ocean, is the second largest city in Portugal. Just like its eldest sibling Lisbon, Porto is also known for its narrow cobblestoned streets that are lined with colorful buildings, blue tiles (azulejos), and medieval architecture treasures that complement the cityscape. A car trip from Coimbra to Porto promises a route rich in picturesque views of vineyards, as well as small towns and rural areas that showcase Portugal's countryside.
To fully experience the journey from Coimbra to Porto, consider using a private car service like Daytrip, which provides more than just a transfer between two cities. Once your local driver picks you up right before heading to the north, all you have to do is buckle up and enjoy your journey. And the best part of it? You can personalize your trip by previously picking spots that you would like to explore along the way. Some stop-worthy places are the Buçaco National Park filled with lush trails or Aveiro, Portugal’s “Little Venice".
About Porto
Porto is characterized by its hilly city center, the golden river (the literal translation of Rio Douro) that weaves along the southern part of the city, the vintage trams that take you to three different routes, and franchesinha, a traditional sandwich that you must try. While Porto is often compared to Lisbon (and vice versa) and they might have many things in common, Porto undoubtedly deserves its own dose of attention.
Famous worldwide for its delicious port wine, which has been produced since the 17th century, Porto serves as the gateway to the Douro Valley, Portugal's oldest wine region. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the valley is renowned for its stunning views of steep vineyard hillsides, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The rabelo boats are one of the main symbols of Porto. They were used to transport barrels of port wine from the Douro Valley's best vineyards to the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia via the river in Porto. This method was used for centuries because there were no proper roads, making the rabelo boats the most reliable mode of wine transportation. Today, these iconic boats can still be seen along the riverbank, serving as a reminder of Porto's rich winemaking heritage, and visitors can take tours to experience this important part of the city's culture.
The name of the country, Portugal, is derived from Porto, a magical city where the river sparkles from sunrise to sunset. Filled with golden, blue, and orange hues that make every step unforgettable, Porto attracts people with its art, rich history and culture, stunning architecture, and warm, welcoming locals, making it the perfect destination for anyone.
From Coimbra to Porto: travel tips
Despite the short journey from Coimbra to Porto, it’s always a good idea to travel prepared. Here are three tips to make your visit to Porto seamless.
Prioritize comfortable shoes
Porto is full of hills and stairs, so consider prioritizing comfort over looks (or combine both, if possible) and pack your most comfortable shoes. While both banks of the river have walkways without hills, be prepared for some climbing in the rest of the city.
Pre-meal snacks aren't free!
In Porto, as well as in Portugal in general, it is common for restaurants to provide snacks before serving your meal. But they're not free! If you eat these snacks, they will be included in your bill.
Book in advance
Don’t miss out on the best that Porto has to offer. Book tours and entry tickets in advance. Some restaurants can get busy during the peak season, so it’s recommended to make a reservation beforehand. This way, you won’t end up walking on the cobbled hills looking for a free table.
How to get from Coimbra to Porto
Make your Coimbra to Porto transfer a breeze by exploring the available transportation options. We'll break down the pros and cons of each so you can decide which best suits your travel preferences.
From Coimbra to Porto by bus
For those seeking an affordable way to travel to Porto, taking a bus is an excellent choice. Here are two of the most popular bus companies to consider:
- Flixbus: if you purchase your ticket in advance, the lowest ticket price is $5.38 (€5), and the travel time is 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Rede Expressos: a Portuguese bus company with the cheapest tickets starting from just $4.25 (€3.95). The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.
If you plan to go by bus, make sure you check the timetable available on the bus company’s official website.
From Coimbra to Porto by train
Another way to get to Porto is by high-speed train. The Alfa Pendular service offers this option, with ticket prices starting at approximately $37.68 (€35). However, the travel time is only 10 minutes faster than the bus, at 1 hour and 11 minutes.
Alternatively, you can choose a slightly cheaper express train (also provided by Alfa Pendular) with tickets starting from approximately $31 (€29). The travel time for this option is 1 hour and 18 minutes. Both trains will take you to Porto-Campanhã station, which is farther from the city center. The train’s timetable can be found online.
From Coimbra to Porto by private car service
While the above options are cost-effective, the best way to reach Porto is undoubtedly by choosing a private car service like Daytrip. Once your local English-speaking driver picks you up and loads your luggage, you will enjoy the scenic views without the hassle of navigating public transport or worrying about being late.
Moreover, your friendly driver will be happy to suggest the best places to visit upon your arrival in Porto. The journey from Coimbra to Porto takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Best of all, Daytrip lets you stop to stretch your legs and explore more of Portugal with enriching sightseeing stops! Check out the Church of Valega with its facade completely covered with colored tiles, or Bucaco National Park, a bastion of natural beauty guarded by medieval walls.
Daytrip’s private car service provides flexibility that public transportation does not offer, as neither the train nor the bus will wait for you.
From Coimbra to Porto by shared shuttle
Does Daytrip’s private car service from Coimbra to Porto sound tempting but you would still prefer to save some dollars to spend on souvenirs? Then Daytrip’s shared shuttle service is made for you! The shared shuttles depart five times a day, allowing you to choose the most convenient time for your trip. Once your driver picks you up at your accommodation, your journey in a comfortable and air-conditioned car can begin.
Things to do when you get to Porto
While Porto’s city center is walkable and can easily be explored without a map, having a good itinerary will help you not miss out on some of the best and most unique sights Porto offers.
Walk around the historic center
Ribeira (‘riverbank’ in Portuguese) ’is Porto’s most emblematic and beautiful neighborhood. It is known for the Dom Luís I Bridge and its colorful houses along the river, a view that you will see on most postcards at souvenir shops. Ribeira is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural and historical significance. Some of the places you must visit include the São Francisco Church, Ribeira Square (Praça da Ribeira), and Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto).
Explore the bookstore that inspired J.K. Rowling
Livraria Lello is not only one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, but it also served as an inspiration for JK Rowling while writing Harry Potter. It is a popular destination for Harry Potter enthusiasts. In the early 1990s, J.K. Rowling lived and worked as an English teacher in Porto, where she wrote the first chapters of the Harry Potter books. The bookstore was built in 1906, and while the exterior features Gothic architecture, the interior showcases Art Nouveau’s design.
Enjoy a glass of authentic port wine
While the main wineries are not located in Porto (you have to travel to Douro Valley), there are some wine cellars close to the city (located in Vila Nova de Gaia) that will offer you an equally authentic port wine experience. Here are some of the wine cellars you can choose from: Poças, Sandeman, and Portugal’s oldest wine company Real Companhia Velha.
Admire the painted tiles at São Bento Station
Even if you don’t go to Porto by train, it is worth visiting the São Bento Station which is famous for its more than 20,000 painted tiles. The ceramic tiles adorn the main entryway of the station, reflecting not only Portugal’s history but also the daily life of the locals. The best time to appreciate the details of tiles is at dusk, but if you want to avoid crowds, the evening is also an excellent option.
When is the best time to visit Porto
If you are seeking sun and warmth, the best time to visit Porto is in summer (June to September). During these months, temperatures can reach 86°F (30°C), making it perfect for enjoying the nearby beaches and outdoor terraces. Summer is also a great time to visit because the city comes alive with festivals and cultural events. Of course, this is also the most popular time to visit, so expect crowds and higher prices on accommodation.
Alternatively, if you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices, consider visiting Porto during spring or autumn. In general, we'd say these are better than the summer. These seasons offer more pleasant temperatures that range between 59 and 77°F (15 to 25°C). In spring, the city's gardens and parks are in full bloom, enhancing the natural beauty of Porto.
Questions & Answers about Traveling from Coimbra to Porto
Is Coimbra closer to Porto or Lisbon?
How long is the train from Coimbra to Porto?
Is Coimbra a day trip from Porto?
How can I get from Porto to Douro Valley?
Can I fly from Coimbra to Porto?
How do I get from Coimbra to Porto?
Visit these sights on the way
Why people love Daytrip
- 1,069 travelers took this route with us
“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”
“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”
Best transport company anywhere
“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”
Excellent experience in traveling
“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”
Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation
“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”
“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”
“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”
Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico
“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”
Great way to travel and see some sights on the way
“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”
“First time I have used Daytrip and we used the service twice in Portgual and both were such amazing trips that I will review them separately. See my other review. I was looking for a way to travel from Porto to Coimbra without hiring a car ourselves. It is so much of a hassle and there are huge one way hire fees in Portugal. I wanted to see a couple of places along the way and there was no way catching the train hauling our luggage along with us could we have managed it. So using the Google search engine I found Daytrip. The ease of booking, the extensions that we could add to our trip including choosing the time to be spent in each location, the prompt and continued communication from Daytrip was absolutely excellent. Igor A arrived in the morning to pick us up from our apartment in Porto. He was friendly, polite, had checked and was early to pick us up. He welcomed us with a welcome pack of goodies and provided water and sweets for the journey. He was knowledgeable about the areas we were visiting and he was able to guide us in the right direction for food, souvenirs and experiences. We had a wonderful day with Igor and felt like we were with a friend not a person we had never met before. I would highly recommend the services of Daytrip. At first you may think it is expensive. But weigh up the cost of carrying around your luggage, driving on unfamiliar roads, tolls, car hire fees, stress of trying to find your way around, when you can sit back and relax and enjoy the scenery.”
Good to know
Children
If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!
Pets
Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.
Tips
Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).
Luggage
- Big luggage
- 29x21x11 inches
- 74x53x28 cm
- Small luggage
- 22x14x9 inches
- 56x36x23 cm
Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.
Payment methods
Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!
Frequently Asked Questions
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